Communism in the Context of Girard's Theory of Sacrifice and Scapegoating

This article considers communism, particularly some aspects of its development in Slovenia, in the context of Girard's theory of sacrifice and scapegoating by addressing the necessity of violence and persecutions for the establishment of communism as a political and social system. The theme has already been described and explored elsewhere; however, some new aspects of the regime are shown. It is possible to mark communism as a myth, as its decisive component is misrepresentation, concealment or distortion of truth. Communism promises equality for all people at all levels, which has convinced many people, especially the poor, who are not part of the ruling class. The promise sparks the mimetic desire, i.e., the desire to imitate, which implies communism can be analyzed using Girard's theory, especially since it refuses to recognize innocent victims as innocent. Mimetic desire leads to mimetic crisis and ultimately triggers the scapegoat mechanism. Communism targets its scapegoating at those who are opposed to its revolution and ideology, particularly the Church and influential people who might affect the development of or resistance to communism. Mimetic crisis and persecution is followed by reconciliation, according to Girard's theory. However, reconciliation is not possible in the illustrative example, as neither the persecutor nor the scapegoat are capable of accepting the truth of the history of their nation. Consequently, Girard's circle is not yet closed.